Romeo Lunch 12-16-09

The Romeo gang met this month at Burton’s Grill in North Andover on Rte 114. You can see info at the link …. http://www.burtonsgrill.com/ This is a slightly upscale restaurant catering to business from the area. It is just down the road from Merrimack College in a little mall. We all arrived about 12 noon and were seated a long table in the middle of the restaurant. Those in attendance were Steve Winter, Joe Pignatiello, Jack Tweedie, Joe Loduca, Jim Terlizzi, Joe Lapiana, Ed Deshuytner, Mark Ryan, Joe Balsama, and Peter Gabriel.

There were a few empty tables and booths when we first arrived but they soon filled up. You would think there would be less people eating out during a down economy but this place was hoping. There were plenty of waiters and waitresses dressed in black pants with white shirts attending on all the tables. Our waitress took drink orders and we all were able to quench our thirsts with beers, sodas, water and margaritas. At the entrance to the restaurant there is a full service bar and large wine cooler on the left wall with see-through glass walls stocked with hundreds of wine bottles.

The waitress brought plenty of bread and seasoned butter to the table as she told us about the day’s specials and reviewed items on the menu. The lunch menu was not extensive but had several sandwiches and burgers listed for around $12.95, seafood stew $12.95 and Risotto of the day $13.95. Most ordered the Burton Burger and a few the Risotto and Stew. Everything was done just right and very tasty. After lunch we ordered some coffee and a couple of desserts to share around the table with extra spoons.

I was sitting in the middle of the long table with half the Romeos on my right and the other half on the left. Most of the time I could only hear those that were closest to me. It’s hard having conversation with a large group in a noisy place. I have gone for all those hearing tests but seem to be in a category where a hearing aid won’t help with the frequency of sounds that I miss. However, I am a good lip reader and make out what most people are saying.

Joe Loduca just returned from a cruise along the Mediterranean and thoroughly enjoyed the stops in Turkey and Greece and Italy. Joe Lapiana talked with Jack Tweedie about an upcoming breakfast for local Justices Peace. Joe Pignatiello thanked Joe Lapiana for letting him know about the theater shows at the Merrimac Theater in Lowell. Joe P. bought tickets for his daughter who always loves the arts. Joe Lapiana said he attended a performance in Melrose put on by the Melrose Philharmonic who had been performing for 92 years. He said it was a Christmas special and very inspiring.

Ed D, Joe Lap, Jim T. and Joe Lod. talked about the North End and the many Benevolent Societies and Churches there that took care of the people in the neighborhood. There was no welfare in the 1940s and 50s. Ed D. also talked about the great Molasses spill and fire near Christopher Columbus HS. When he went to school there in the 50s and 60s you could still smell the molasses. Joe Lap. said the elevated trains had a distinguishing feel to Boston but he is happy with the new look and especially the Rose Kennedy Greenway.

I also talked with Ed D. and Jim T. about my Short Stories Blog and the Adventurers of the Romeo Gang. It has been a lot of fun and I enjoy doing the research to make sure all the facts are correct and try to relate the stories to Romeo activities and current events to make them relevant.

Jack Tweedie talked with Mark Ryan and Joe Balsama about applying for a teaching job at a local HS. He would fill in for the rest of the year and teach honors chemisty classes. On second thoughts he turned it down realizing the everyday commitment, preparation, homework, correcting papers, etc. and likes the retirement life. Joe B. talked with Mark R. about spending the holidays at home and he and his wife cooked Turkey for Thanksgiving. Joe B. also passed out calendars from The Swampscott Historical Society which had weather data on each date and old historic pictures from the area.

The time went by quickly and it was 2 PM before we realized it. However, before we left, we decided on the next lunch date to be January 20th at the Mt. Vernon at the Ship in Lynnfield. You will get an email from Jim Terlizzi.

Although I did bring my camera, I forgot to take pictures of the group and only took one after we left of the restaurant outside. Mia Culpa. I was too occupied trying to hear what everyone was saying.

Comments always welcome. Send email to: markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 11-16-09

The Romeo gang met for lunch today at the Aegean Restaurant in Watertown, MA. You can see info and menu of the restaurant at the link … http://www.aegeanrestaurants.com/

You can also see photos of the group at the link ….
http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/RomeoLunch111609#

Those in attendance were Jack Tweedie, Steve Winter, Joe Pignatiello, Mark Ryan, Jim Terlizzi, Joe Balsama, Paul Girard, Jim Kearns, and Joe Lapiana.

The waitress took our orders for drinks which were beer on tap, martinis, soda and water. We also had baskets of bread, loaf and pita. We then looked at the lunch menu and most ordered some lamb dishes, combinations, or rack of lamb with rice, fries or roasted potatoes. We also got house salad with Feta cheese. Later, we ordered one dessert with spoons to share and cappuccino, decaf or regular coffee. The servings were plentiful and delicious.

As always the group talked about current events and made jokes and we all laughed.

The political race was one of the first topics and most said that Coakley was at the top of the polls with Capuano second. Pagliuca has a great war chest and is worth 700 million of his own money. He has a good platform for JOBS but hasn’t explained his plan yet. Capuano went to Somerville HS and was in classes with Jim Kearns when he was a student. He is smart but also abrasive but gets the job done. He has experience in politics as mayor of Somerville and congressman. Coakley has the women’s vote, has had her name in the paper as Attorney General, and is for health care but against paying for abortion. Nothing was said about Khazei

Jack T. and Joe Lapiana talked about their jobs as Justice Peace and how to create a good Web Site. They said the State Web Site needs to be overhauled. The last breakfast they attended could have been better prepared at $18 a head..

Mark and Jim talked about traveling in Europe. Using ATM cards rather than Traveler’s Checks. Jim mentioned that Joe Loduca was currently on a cruise to Turkey and Mediterranean. Jim also said that he would rather rent a car and travel around Europe than in a group. However, if he went to an Asian destination, he would go in a tour group.

Joe Balsama said he was going to a Historical Society meeting later tonight. I asked him about the vote on the new jail in Swampscott which was in the Boston Globe. He said the vote passed and they were going to build a new Police Department with jail facilities.

I said I saw some buildings on Trapella Rd. while driving in, the Fernal School and the National Archives. Joe Lapiana said that the Archives was a good place to go if you were doing genealogical research similar to Elis Island in New York and the Mormon Library in Utah.

I talked to Joe P. about skiing and asked if he was going to Wachusetts this year. He said he bought a seasonal ticket again and Joe Lapiana said he was going to go on a daily basis. Joe P. said his friend bought some skis for he and his wife which ran about $600 a piece which were quite expensive. I asked how much to rent skis and boots and Joe Lapiana said about $30 a day and pretty good quality.

Steve Winter said he had a solar hot water collector on his roof which has reduced his energy bill last year by $30 per month. He has to fill it with antifreeze (biodegradable) as the primary fluid which then heats the secondary system water. I said a lot of people in my town have put up Solar Electric Panels (ultra thin) which creates a lot of solar electricity that reduces their electric bills.

I talked with Paul about the mystery short stories that I am writing and said I was having a lot of fun doing it. It also keeps my mind active doing all the background research before I write the stories. I also said its pretty easy weaving the Romeo characters into the stories because they are such a colorful group with a lot of interests that I can tap into.

Before you knew it, the tie was 2:30 Pm and it was time to hit the road.

Before we left it was decided to go to a restaurant in North Andover on Dec. 16. Jim Terlizzi will send out emails.

Comments and suggestion are always welcome : email to markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 10-27-09

This month the Romeo gang met for lunch at Lucciano’s Restaurant in Londonderry, NH. The restaurant was suggested by Joe P. since he has family who live nearby. The drive up north was easy along Rte 93. You could see the foliage change as you drove further north. Along the way I saw a flock of geese heading south. Maybe they have the right idea. I arrived at the restaurant shortly before noon as others also arrived.

The Romeos present were: Peter Gabriel, Jim Terlizzi, Mark Ryan, Paul Girard, Joe LoDuca, Joe Lapiana, Steve Winter, Joe Pignatiello, Ed Deschytner, and Joe Balsama. You can see photos of the group at the link …… http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo102709?authkey=Gv1sRgCI-71LLijKKqeA#

We all strolled inside and sat at a long table against the wall. The waitress greeted us and took drink orders. Shortly after we read the menu and made our selections. You can see the menu and other info at the link ….. http://www.luccianos.com/. The lunch menu offered pasta dishes, calzones, paninis, pizza and subs at great prices.

Although this was the lunch menu, the portion sizes were huge and served on big dinner plates. Some of us also ordered garden salads that could have been a meal itself. Not only were the portions big but the food was just great. We all ate about half our meals and were just stuffed and brought the rest home in a foam cartons. Later, we had coffee and dessert and continued the conversation. The waitress brought extra spoons so we could share the dessert.

As always the conversation was great, funny and informative. We talked about the economy, job layoffs and the value of the dollar. Joe Lod. was going on a two week cruise to the Mediterranean. Jim T. said he was planning a seven day island cruise out of Miami for about $700, if anyone was interested.

The conversation shifted to current wages, health insurance, deductibles and medications. Is that what “old” people talk about? I said that I saw an ad for a social studies teacher in Wakefield with a salary range of $42,000 to $72,000. That seems pretty good these days. I also saw in a book that I am reading about current day Vietnam, that the average wage there was $300 a year. I know it is all relative but why is there such a contrast? I sure am glad to be retired but hope that the cost of living doesn’t out strip my pension. I hope I can afford buying a gallon of milk a hundred years from now. Ha Ha.

I talked with Paul G. about getting ice cream at Richardson in Middleton where people also stopped to buy gallons of milk. Paul said the West Lynn Creamery was also a good place but recently changed names. Joe Lap. said he saw the new name but couldn’t think of it. Joe B. said he knew but had a brain freeze. Fifteen minutes later Joe B. said that Garelic Farms bought up the West Lynn Creamery. As you can see, the conversations get real intellectual, the older you get.

Later, suggestions were asked for next month’s lunch. Joe B. suggested a Greek restaurant in Waltham, MA called the Athenia. Jim T. will send out info later.

Comments and suggestion are welcome. Email to markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 9-22-09

Another great lunch with the Romeos. We met this month at Rosetti’s Café in Winthrop, MA. You can see the menu at the link …… http://ma.isawyourmenu.com/

This is a hidden gem along the shore and will accommodate about 40 people. The food is excellent at reasonable prices for lunch and dinner. Although it does not serve liquor you can bring your own and they will provide glasses. The restaurant is located right on the beach hidden on a corner among all the private homes with plenty of parking along the beach boulevard. It is a local place visited by neighborhood residents or those who hear about it from friends. You have to look for the restaurant address as the houses pass by or use a GPS to find the place. It really blends in with all the homes.

I arrived early and waited outside to enjoy the beach air and view. A few people walked the sands as some large ships could be seen leaving Boston harbor as well as planes landing at Logan airport. Other Romeos began arriving and parked there cars along the beach road. When most had arrived we wandered inside and were seated at a long table against the back wall. Those present were Paul Girard, Joe Pignatiello, Steve Winter, Jim Sicuso, Jack Tweedie, Mark Ryan, Joe Balsama, Joe Loduca, Ed Deshuytner, Joe Lapiana, John Regan and Jim Terlizzi. You can see photos at the link …..
http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo92209#

Some Romeos brought several bottles of wine to the restaurant and the waitress brought wine glasses and uncorked the bottles. We all made a toast in memory of Mary Corcoran who recently passed away. Some shared some memories of Mary and hoped that some kind of memorial could be done in her name.

After reading the menus we were ready and the waitress took our orders. Fresh Italian bread was placed on the tables with dipping oil and was just delicious. The food arrived shortly and there was a variety of pasta dishes with chicken, veal, meatballs, mussels and salads. We continued to fill the wines glasses and enjoyed a hardy meal as the smells of pasta, oil and garlic filled the air. This was certainly a roman feast to remember.

Joe Pignatiello picked up Steve Winter so he could attend the lunch with us. Steve looks much better and said he is feeling a lot better lately. Joe P. talked about making wine this passed year at the Boston Winery. It took about 6 months for the whole process from buying the grapes off the train in Worcester, crushing them by machine, fermenting, buying his own barrel, to finally siphoning off individual bottles. He was able to get 288 bottles from one barrel. The label on the bottle has a photo of his father with the name Pa’s Zinfandel 2009. He said the wine gets better with each bottle that he has opened.

Jim Sicuso who is not retired and still works in Revere was able to join us for lunch. Jim knows the owner-chefs of Rosetti’s since he attended the Revere schools with them. Jim introduced Steve Rosetti to the group with friendly conversation.

Mark R. talked with Jack Tw. about Mark’s grandchildren who live in Wakefield. Joe B. asked Mark if he knew Father Steele from St Joseph’s in Wakefield. Mark said he attended Sunday mass there with his grandchildren and knew Farther Steele from church. Joe said that Farther Steele is now in Marblehead at St. John’s Church which he attends sometimes. He also said that he sometimes sees Betty D. a friend of Jack and Mark at church. It is certainly a small world where circles of friends overlap.

We talked about gardening and the poor tomato crop this year. Jack and Mark and Joe Lod. said they all got a poor yield of tomatoes but that other vegetables were ok. I said that my pumpkins are growing great and that I have one large pumpkin-squash hybrid (a squmpkin) that is about 18 inches across and still growing. Joe Lod. Said he has had a lot of SLUGS in his garden this year probably because of all the rain we have had in the spring.

The conversation continued around the table and we all had a bunch of laughs with each story. Two hours went by quickly and we decided on another restaurant for next month which will probably be in Londonderry, NH nearer to Ed D. house.

Like always. Life is good.

Comments always accepted. Send to markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 8-12-09

The Romeos met this month at the Latitude 43 Restaurant in Gloucester, MA. You can see menu info at their web site ….. http://www.latfortythree.com/ . You can also see photos of the area and the group at the web link ….. http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo81209

Before going I always look up the restaurant info online and check the directions (Restaurant and MapQuest). This time I printed out the MapQuest directions which stated that the trip would take me about 59 minutes and 40 miles from Wilmington to Gloucester. Unfortunately, the MapQuest directions were wrong and directed me to get off at Exit 13 in Gloucester rather than the next exit at Grant Circle. I should have followed the Restaurant Directions which were correct. At that point, I took out the trusty old GPS and 10 minutes later arrived at my destination. The moral of the story is that if you have multiple directions, make sure they are the same. The GPS isn’t always correct either.

After parking in the lot at the Town Dock (which was free), I walked over to the restaurant and met the others inside. Three other Romeos arrived a little later. The waiter gave out menus and took orders for drinks. Most got an assortment of beers on draft and a few sodas. However, Peter G. ordered water with plenty of ice so he could make his tradition “Crystal Light” lemonade. Peter, who is always frugal, also commented that he gets the 20 pack generic lemonade rather that the 10 pack Crystal Light for the same money. Those in attendance were Joe LoDuca, Joe Lapiana, Ed Deshuytner, Paul Girard, Peter Gabriel, Joe Pignatiello, Jim Kearns, Jim Terlizzi, Brother Tim Paul and Mark Ryan.

As we expected, the dinner menu was bit expensive with most entrees about $20 but sandwiches about $10. After contemplating the less expensive choices, most all picked an entrée which ranged from Seafood Platter (fried or baked), or Scallops, or Haddock. Although, some of the surrounding tables were served sooner, we waited a little longer so all ten plates could be served at the same time. The wait was well worth it and the meal was excellent. Later we had coffee and a few desserts that were shared with extra spoons.

As always, the conversation touched on various current topics in the news or sports or hobbies or trips. Jim K. commented that he went to a free Concert on the Common Tuesday night and watched the weather on the horizon threaten. A few thunder boomers also delayed the baseball game but soon passed.

Mark R. talked with Brother Tim about flying and the latest air accident on the Hudson River between a small plane and helicopter. Everyone commented that the air traffic along the Hudson is so busy that it is uncontrolled and left to the general aviation rules and pilot common sense. I told Brother Tim that when I first got my pilot’s license in 1985, I had the chance to fly along the Hudson River, Twin Towers and Statute of Liberty and remember it fondly. Today’s flight rules are quite different for general aviation.

Joe P. mentioned the idea of a deep sea fishing trip that we had talked about before. Paul G. said he would look into it and send out info by email for those interested. I mentioned that the Boston Globe had a photo of a man who recently caught a 62 pound Mahi Mahi (Dolphin Fish) off Martha’s Vineyard last Saturday which set a new record which was previously 47 pounds. See the Boston Globe at the link … http://www.boston.com/ae/celebrity/articles/2009/08/10/catch_of_the_day/

Paul G. said he just returned from family trip to Martha’s Vineyard where he caught some blue fish. We all mentioned how expensive it is there and the Obama vacation planned for $40,000 for one week. Paul said that the average large house rentals go for $30,000 per week.

Jim T. talked about taking a trip to San Diego for a great price. Joe Lod. and Joe Lap. mentioned that they were in San Diego with Jim T. years ago on a NSTA convention and went down into Mexico in a rental car. Mary Corcoran was also on the same trip and they said they had loads of fun. Joe P. then mentioned that we were going to take Mary out again for dinner to the Winthrop Arms. Jim T. said he would contact Mary and see if she wants to go.

Joe Lod. talked with me about gardening and tomatoes and the poor crop which he said was due to the cool and rainy weather. He also told me how he grows some of his vegetables now in raised beds and pots and has had better luck. I said that I have a second garden that I am growing on a compost pile and having better grow with all the plants. I have already harvested some cherry tomatoes, zucchini and cucumbers. The squash, pumpkins and watermelon are all about 4 inches in size. He gave me some hints on harvesting broccoli.

Joe Lap. mentioned that he got an email from Jack Tweedie who recently got his JP License. He only had to wait a month after applying. Joe said that was certainly quicker than normal. Good luck to Jack.

We talked about setting a date for next month and settled on September 22 (Tuesday) at the Winthrop Arms. Jim T. is making the arrangements and will let everyone know by email.

The waiter brought the bill and gave it to Ed D. to figure out each person’s share. Although it was a little expensive, it is always great to meet the others and spend a relaxing lunch. You only have one trip on this Earth so enjoy it while you can.

Comments always welcome. Email to markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 7-8-09

The Romeo gang met for lunch today at the Pier 4 Restaurant in Boston, MA. You can see restaurant info and menu at the web site ….. http://www.pier4.com/ . It was “Tall Ships” week in Boston and foreign and local sailing ships have come to Boston Harbor to celebrate sailing history. You can see the sailing info at the link …. http://www.sailboston.com/ .

Although the lunch was scheduled for 12 noon, I arrived early and walked around the waterfront to see some of the ships up close. Public tours on board most of the boats start on Thursday so I only got a good outside look from the dock, but they were spectacular. The harbor was just alive with activity. Large and small craft were traveling in every direction around the harbor. As I stood on the dock I could hear the speaker from a passing tour boat describing the various sailing ships.

Shortly before noon I headed back to the restaurant and met some of the Romeos as we waited for the rest of the crew to arrive. When all hands were on deck we strolled into the restaurant and were seated at a long table in the middle of the dining hall. We were early and the place was pretty empty at this time. The Romeos in attendance were John Tweedie, Joe Balsama, Steve Winter, Jim Terlizzi, Brother Tim Paul, Ed Deshuytner, Mark Ryan, Joe Pignatiello, Joe Loduca, Joe Lapiana and John Regan (a friend of Joe Lapiana). You can see some photos and video of the ships and the dinner at the link below ……. http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo7809

The waiter took drink orders which were a combination of beers, martinis and sodas. He then took are meal orders and returned shortly with bread and butter, Pop Overs, salads, and bowls of chowder. The meals then arrived which ranged from fisherman’s platter, to lobster roll, fried clams, and shrimp scampi. Latter we had coffee and espresso and shared some desserts (Baked Alaska, Blueberry Pie and Bread Pudding). Everything was just delicious but also high priced since this is a primo restaurant attraction.

During and after dinner the conversation bounced around the table. I talked about spending some vacation time in NH with my grandkids (camping, swimming and fishing). Joe P. talked about visiting the ICA (Institute of Contemporary Art). He said he would like to take a bike tour around Boston, touring all the Graffiti Paintings done by the famous street artist Shepard Fairey. You can see a related article in the Boston Globe http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/02/07/street_artist_arrested_on_way_to_event_at_ica/ .

Joe Loduca talked about watching TV this week and finding every station covering the Michael Jackson story. Joe B. said he has a trick to cure that, by watching old “School Committee” TV video tapes. ?????? We all laughed. To each his own.

Brother Tim talked about flying and using a type of circular slide rule called an E6B to make all sorts of aviation calculations. It’s nice that we “Old Educators” still know what a slide rule is. Ed D. said his grandkids saw a slide ruler and wanted to know where you put in the batteries.

John Regan said he was retired from the State Police but we didn’t hold that against him. He said he use to live in Melrose and now lives in Winthrop near the Winthrop Arms. We all then said that that would be a great place to take Mary Corcoran to dinner later this summer of fall.

John T. talked with Joe Lapiana about the JP license and said he was interested in getting one also from Winchester where he lives. Ed D. said his son and wife were looking to buy a condo in Boston area since they love the city life. Joe P’s. son is a general contractor and just sold a property in Somerville which would have been ideal.

Brother Tim talked about retirement and said priest in his order only get a pension of about $17,000 a year. That is quiet small compared to other retirement vocations. Joe Loduca said that a paralegal with two years college can make $80,000 at Millenium Pharmaceuticals. Maybe that’s why drugs are so expensive. And most people complain about teacher salaries ???????

Joe Lapiana and I both shared some info about the Downeaster Train to Portland with Joe P. The Romeos may take trip in the fall on the train. The train takes about 2 1/2 hours to go from North Station to Portland, Maine and cost about $40 round trip.

The time went by quickly and it was 2 o’clock when we broke up. We decided to leave for home early before the rush hour traffic. Ed D. said there were several rain storms on Rte 93 on his way to the restaurant and big accident at Commerce Way so be careful going home. I left the parking lot and went through the tunnel on to Rte 93 and the traffic was very light with no rain. It must be a miracle.

Jim Terlizzi will send an email with more particulars, but the next lunch will probably be in Gloucester on August 12th.

Comments are always welcome. Send email to markryan8@comcast.net.

Romeo Lunch 6-17-09

The Romeo gang met again for lunch today at Angelicas Restaurant on Rte 114 in Middleton. You can see the menu and other info at the link …… http://www.angelicas-online.com/ .

We all met outside in the parking lot as each arrived, one by one. We shook hands and joked and greeted each other like long lost “Gumbas”. When most had arrived we wandered into the restaurant and met the hostess who led us to a table. We all began to take seats when Peter G. said “over here near the window”. Evidently we were at the wrong table and the good scout “Tonto” found the right one.

The Romeos in attendance were Joe Pignatiello, Mark Ryan, Jim Terlizzi, Brother Tim Paul, Steve Winter, Peter Gabriel, Joe Balsama, Ed Deshuytner, Paul Girard, Joe Loduca, Joe Lapiana, and Jack Tweedie. You can see photos of the group at the link …..
http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo61709

We all took our seats and the waiter added another small table, so all twelve could be seated comfortably. We looked at the menu which almost had too much to choose from. There was a lunch section and regular items. As we made our lunch choices, the waiter took the drink orders. Most ordered beers, (no drafts) and martinis and soda.

The waiter returned for the lunch orders which ranged from turkey and pastrami sandwiches, to turkey dinners, shrimp, and steak. Most dinners also came with salads. After a short wait the dinners arrived and were very good.

Since we were seated at a long table, it was hard hearing the conversation at the other end. Most of what I heard was only from one end of the table. As always Joe Loduca joked and we all laughed. Jim T. talked about the poor quality of sitcom TV shows but said he liked “Two And A Half Men”. We all agreed. Joe Loduca said that his favorite was Archie Bunker with his use of twisted words. Like his wife went to see the women doctor which he referred to as the Groinologist.

Joe Lapiana talked about his duties as a Justice Peace and the 18 people he has married. Only so many JP licenses are available per town and population, however Joe can use his license all over Massachusetts. John Tweedie talked about going to his house in Mashpee today after the lunch. He enjoys life at the beach. Mark R. talked about his carpal tunnel operation and follow up appointment for some wrist swelling. Joe P. talked about taking the train to Portland some day soon with the Romeo’s.

I talked with Brother Tim who has just got his Private Pilot’s License. He is thrilled about it and uses every chance he gets to fly around the area. He belongs to a flying club and is trying to get his students at St. John’s Prep to take flying lessons too. We will be anxious to hear about his flying adventures in the near future.

Steve Winter joined us for lunch after a long absence. He is recovering well from his fall a few months ago. He is not driving yet so Joe P. picked him up at his house so he could attend the Romeo lunch. Steve tells me that he reads the Blogs with interest so he can keep abreast of what is going on.

Joe P. suggested that we go to a restaurant in Boston next month since the Tall Ships will be in. Several restaurants were mentioned and we all decided on Anthony’s Pier 4 which also has free parking. Jim T. will send out the particulars. See you all next month. Comments always welcome. Send email to ……. markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 5-20-09

The Romeo gang met again for lunch today at the BYC (Boston Yacht Club) in Marblehead. We went as guests of Paul Girard who is a member there. I arrived about 12 noon and met Paul and a few others who were there earlier. We ordered drinks and sat on the outdoor deck which looks out over Marblehead Harbor. There were boats as far as you could see, some at the dock, some at moorings and some meandering around the protected harbor. It was a beautiful day with the temperature in the high 80s.

After everyone had arrived, we went inside and sat at a long table. The Romeos in attendance were Joe Balsama, Joe Loduca, Jim Terlizzi, Peter Gabriel, Paul Girard, Ed Deschuytner and Mark Ryan. Other dining tables began to fill up fast with members and their guests. Our table was already set with menus at each place. You can see some photos at the link ………… http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo52009


The waitress told the group about some specials and gave us a few minutes to look at the menu. When she returned, most ordered the Lobster Roll and some ordered Baked Haddock. The meal came back quickly and we all dug in. Everything was delicious. Afterwards we had coffee and dessert, which we shared around the table.

As usual, the conversation was interesting and varied. We all had some story to contribute. As we talked about politics, Joe B. said that he was in the service with state house poll George Keverian. He was always a bundle of laughs but never on time for morning inspection. Most times they would hide Keverian in his locker until after the inspection. He must have been somewhat thinner then.

We talked about seeing some new movies and Ed D. said he saw the new Star Trek which was excellent. You can see a movie trailer and some reviews at the link …. http://search.yahoo.com/search?p=star+trek&fr=ush-movies
Jim T. said he saw a new movie called the Great Buck Howard with John Malkavich which he thought was just super. You can see a review on Netflix at the link … http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1809736206/info

Peter G. asked who had Comcast, Verizon or Dish TV. Most still had Comcast but several have switched to Verizon (Fios) with mixed reviews. Paul G. said he didn’t notice any difference in HD TV compared to regular TV nor the internet speeds. Peter G. has Verizon with phone, internet and TV (4 TV Hookups) for $130 month which seems like a good deal. Paul was miffed though since he opted for Verizon for $99 for one year and a few weeks later they offered it for two years. He called to get the better deal and they wouldn’t do it.

Paul and Mark talked about gardening and growing Heirloom Tomatoes as well as starting vegetables from seed in a cold frame.

Jim T. mentioned that he planned a few trips to Key Largo FL, South Beach FL, and Ogunquit Maine. Mark R. mentioned that he was going on a few trips this summer in Maine and NH in his RV Trailer. He was leaving tomorrow for Littleton, NH for some camping and hiking with his brother-in-law. Joe L. said he enjoyed the area around Littleton and Bethlehem which is close by. You can see the campground at the link below …... http://www.ucampnh.com/crazyhorse/default.asp

Jim T. told us that he recently got a free transponder to travel through Massachusetts Toll Booths like the EZ Pass. I looked it up at the link below and learned that you can use the transponder in 16 adjoining states from Maine to Illinois. http://www.masspike.com/travel/fastlane/fastlanefaq.html#42

We talked about where to meet next month and Peter recommended Angelica’s in Middleton. Jim T. will send out the info.

The time went by so quickly as we joked and laughed that it was 3 PM already. I left to use the Men’s Room and when I returned the grouped had already left and were outside. Luckily there was some Ocean Charts on the walls of the Men’s Room that I could used to navigate my way home. (See Photos).

We all got in our cars and I followed Peter and Joe L (in his MG sports coupe) out of Marblehead and through Salem. The traffic was quite heavy in Salem which made me glad that I am retired and don’t have to fight the maniac drivers everyday.

Comments and suggestions are always welcome. Send email to : ……. markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 4-29-09

The Romeo gang met again this month for lunch at Bacci’s Restaurant in Stoneham, MA.
Although the restaurant doesn’t have a web site, you can see a restaurant review at the web link ….. http://www.wickedlocal.com/stoneham/archive/x1277295354/Auffrey-Bacci-s-of-Stoneham

It was a beautiful day in the 60’s with the sun shining and blue skies. Arriving a little early I parked in the municipal parking area in Stoneham Square. I got out of the car and saw Joe Loduca and Joe Lapiana walking in the park area. The town has done a great job with planting trees and flowers with park benches and paths for strolling or relaxing. From the park you could see a lot of the town buildings, homes and churches. I took some photos of the surroundings including some church steeples. Some had interesting architecture. Joe Lapiana commented that you could see a Congo in the distance. He was referring to the square shaped roof of a congregational church. There is a 2 hour limit at the muni parking lot, so I moved the car to Bacci’s lot that is quite small, after seeing the meter maid checking cars.

Stoneham square is a busy place filled with several restaurants, post office, police station, banks, shops, the Mass General Hospital Suburban annex and the Stoneham Theater. At the theater you can see live off-broadway plays. Ticket prices are reasonable and you can even pay what you want on the first Thursday of each month. See the web link at ……. http://www.stonehamtheatre.org/

Most Romeos arrived at about noon and we were seated at a long table in the rear. The décor is traditional Italian with paintings on the walls, sculpture and flowers. As you enter there is an open bar, area for take-out, booths for lunch and dinner and function room in the rear. Ten Romeos were in attendance: Joe Loduca, Ed Deschuytner, Jim Terlizzi, John Tweedie, Peter Gabriel, Joe Pignatiello, Joe Balsama, Paul Girard, Mark Ryan and Joe Lapiana. You can see some photos of the group at the web link below …… http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/RomeoLunch42909


We ordered drinks and waited for the others to arrive. Most ordered Peroni beer, Sam Adams, Amsdel Light, Martini, Soda and Ice water with Lemon. Peter G. (the frugal gourmet) likes to make his own lemonade. The waitress announced some specials and we read the menus looking for that special cuisine. The prices for lunch were quite good ($7-$10) with surprising large portions. The choices were different for each of us ranging from: chicken, shrimp or veal scampi or cacciatore, to Fra Diablo with mussels and calamari and lastly tripe. We also got two orders of calamari appetizers. The chef brought out a large plate of delicious Raviolis on the house and there was plenty of fresh toasted garlic bread.

The conversation was great as usual. We laughed and joked and poked fun at each other. Joe P. talked about making wine at the Winery in Dorchester. The process takes a whole year with several meetings to prepare the wine batch. Joe made a zinfandel wine, crushing and straining grapes and periodically testing the process.

Paul Girard is from French heritage along with his wife who is French and Polish. He spoke fluent French growing up and going to St. Joseph’s Parochial school in Salem. He also described eating polish blood sausage and other polish delights.

Joe Loduca and Joe Pignatiello ordered Tripe and talked about how they ate different foods as a kid. Joe L. raved about eating pig’s feet and others talked about other exotic foods like caviar, and cow’s brain. Joe P. mentioned how the TV Travel channel has a show on exotic foods.

John Tweedie is heading to Florida next week. He frequently visits Fort Lauderdale area and Pompano Beach for R&R and likes to play tennis there. In fact he left a little earlier today for a tennis date.

We talked about baseball and the Red Sox. I mentioned going to Lowell to see the Spinners and maybe dinner after. Joe Lapiana said he would get the particulars.

Joe P. talked about biking from Somerville to Provincetown Cape Code and taking the ferry back. He got stopped by a state trooper for biking on Rte. 6 and escorted off to Rte. 6A. I asked if he ever tried the Pan Am challenge and he said you need to have mucho pledge donations to participate as well as too long a distance.

After dinner we had coffee, cappuccino and dessert to share. Before we noticed 2 hours had passed quickly and we called it a day. Before leaving though, Paul Girard offered going to the BYC in Marblehead for lunch next month. All agreed.

Comments are welcome. Send email to markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 3-25-09

The Romeo gang met again for lunch this month (March 25, 2009) in the North End at the Artu Restaurant, 6 Prince St.. See the link below for restaurant week and the restaurant …….. Go to http://www.restaurantweekboston.com/ and http://www.artuboston.com/

There were 8 Romeos in attendance : Jim Kearns, Jim Terlizzi, Joe Pignatiello, Joe Lapiana, Joe Loduca, Paul Girard, Ed Deschuytner and Mark Ryan. You can see some photos of the trip and lunch at the link ……. http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo32509

Ed D. coming from NH, took his car and found a great parking garage for only $10 (11AM-5PM) on Commercial St. Joe P. took the local MBTA. Jim T., Jim K and Paul G. took the train to Newburyport. Joe Loduca and Joe Lapiana and Mark Ryan took the Lowell commuter train which is $5.20 regular fare or $2.60 for Seniors. My senior Charlie Card certainly cuts the price way down.

I met the two Joes at the Wilmington Station for the ride to North Station. We had a great conversation on a number of topics and then about family doctors and home remedies that our families used. Joe Laduca said that his family used the 3 oils to solve simple family illnesses: (Castor Oil, Omega Oil, and Olive Oil).

We got to North Station from Wilmington in 28 minutes. We saw the Downeast Train on the platform and talked about taking it up to Portland for the day and having dinner with the Romeos some day. We then walked out the Bank North entrance over to the North End. You could see the Lenny Zankum Bridge and the Rose Kennedy Greenway as we walked. We turned down Hanover St. and then over to Prince St. We were still early for lunch and took a walk around the area over to Paul Revere’s House and St. Leonard’s Church.

St. Leonard’s Church has a peace garden out front and has beautiful flowers in the summer. It was open, so we went inside to look at the old architecture. The altar, Stations of the Cross reliefs, pipe organ and vaulted ceilings were just beautiful.

Joe Lapiana talked about his family living in the North End and attending the three different feast day parades. The Feast of St. Anthony and St. Joseph are always well attended as the statue of the Madonna is carried down the street. Joe’s family was very active in the St. Joseph’s Society and he recently went to a dinner held in Malden at Anthony’s Restaurant celebrating the St Joseph’s Society 87th year.

We returned to the Artu Restaurant and went inside to our reserved table. The others began to arrive one by one and soon were all there. Our waiter Joshua spoke with an English accent and was from Brighton, England. We ordered drinks and then looked at the menu. Since this was restaurant week, there were some specials for a three course dinner (Antipasti, Secondi, and Dolci). The three choices for antipasti were: salad, calamari, and eggplant medley, all written in Italian. The three choices for the secondi (main course) were fish, eggplant or veal. The Dolci or desserts were cannoli, tiramisu and a tort.

We all ordered from the specials and the antipasti was quickly served. We talked and laughed and ate and drank for a while and then the main course came. It was all delicious and prepared to perfection. We then ordered separate desserts and coffee or cappuccino.
As always, the conversations were varied and bounced around the table. Joe Terlizzi talked about his trip to India and had a photo album that he shared. Jim Kearns talked about his son getting a doctorate in biochem and getting an interview quickly. The discussion then went to job interviews and how employers now look to see if you have a Facebook page or Myspace page and whether it contains items that reveal a dark side of your personality.

The discussion then centered on what medicines we all take, especially antacids. Some take acid reflux medication like Prilosec, or Zantac or Ranitidine each day before antacid symptoms start. The conversation then somehow switched to Viagra and caught the attention of a women sitting at the next table. Of course all the single guys’ eyes lit up and others just hid their eyes.

The time really flew by and it was close to 2:30PM when we left. We all headed back to North Station and on the way Joe Loduca wanted to stop at a cheese shop to buy real Italian string cheese. However, when we got to the shop the owner didn’t have what he was looking for. Joe Lapiana saw a store window with Easter Candy and some sugar candies that he had as a child. We reached North Station and the Romeo party divided up to different stations to get their different trains.

It was a great day had by all. The sky was blue and the weather great and the air just a bit cool. I just love the sights around Boston. The people, the high buildings, the traffic are like a giant living heart. Moving and pumping and bulging in all directions and somehow all interconnected.

Comments are welcome…. Send email to markryan82@comcast.net

Romeo Lunch 2-25-09

The Romeo group met for lunch this month at Stelios Restaurant in Billerica, MA, located at 239 Boston Road (Rte 3A). Go to http://www.steliosrestaurant.com/ for more info.

You can see some photos/movie of the group at the link …..
http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo22509

The waitress brought drinks after most had arrived. Some had soda, coffee and the beer special was “Stelios Own” Draft Ale. (Although the ale was dark, it tasted like light beer) and a good choice.

The Romeos in attendance were Bob Simmons, Jim Kearns, Jim Terlizzi, Joe Lapiana, Paul Girard, Joe Pignatiello, Mark Ryan, Peter Gabriel, Ed Deschuytner, Joe Loduca and Jack Tweedie.

Peter Gabriel arrived a little late and said he went to the wrong restaurant even though Peter worked in Billerica for a million years. Joe Loduca gave directions to Peter by phone since he doesn’t have a computer and razzed him about getting lost. Peter and Joe are constantly jabbing each other like father and son. Peter was Joe’s boss before he retired and then Joe became boss. You can see some of the hazing in the movie at the above link.

The waitress then explained the menu and said that the items listed as today’s specials were what most people ordered and were top choices. The menu listed a lot of good selections at reasonable prices (steak, chicken, lamb, fish, pasta). Stelios serves - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Since Stelios is a Greek restaurant, some ordered baked lamb with Greek salad. Others ordered pasta, steak and fish. Although Joe Loduca gave us a special dispensation for Ash Wednesday, some of us ordered the fish and didn’t take any chances !!! Soup or salad came with the meal. The fish chowder was great. Joe Pignatiello had some free coupons that allowed us to order some appetizers, (nachos and bacon wrapped sausages) .

The salads and soups were served along with rolls and butter as the conversations worked around the table. Shortly, the main meals were served and the portion size was quite large. I had the scallops and shrimp in a cream sauce over angel hair pasta. It was delicious. Everyone enjoyed their selection and said they would come back again.

The conversations were interesting as usual. However, it was hard hearing those at the other end of a long table. Jim Terlizzi talked a little about his trip to India, the northern part near Deli. Joe Pignatiello talked about a clot in his lungs and taking medication. However, the Doctor said he could go back to skiing but take it easy. Ed Deschuytner had his house sided with new vinyl siding and fiber board insulation and removed old cedar shingles. Mark Ryan may have operation on wrist for carpal tunnel. Peter said he also meets with another retired group in his neighborhood called the L-Street Gang. Sounds like the L-Street Brownie’s that take a winter dip in the cold ocean water.

Next month we are meeting on March 25th in the North End. Jim Terlizzi will send out details.

Romeo Lunch 1-13-09

The Romeo group met this month at Café Madrid in Chelmsford, MA. You can view the menu etc. at the link …. http://www.cafemadridchelmsford.com/

The eight Romeos in attendance were Joe Balsama, Joe Pignatiello, Joe Loduca, Joe Lapiana, Jim Terlizzi, Ed Deshuytner, Steve Winter, and Mark Ryan. We all arrived at about 12 noon with a few late birds. I was a little late because I looked at the directions and took the wrong exit 34 on Rte 3 instead of on Rte 495. Jim Terlizzi with Joe Balsama got stuck on Rte 128 due to a construction project. While we waited, drinks were served all around from Pepsi, to wine to Beer.

The waiter then announced the specials for the day and we all made are choices from the menu. There was a variety of salads, hot and cold sandwiches, Paellas and Tapas. Most of us ordered the Paellas with sea food or with pork on a bed of yellow Spanish saffron rice. Others ordered the special half sandwich (pastrami) and soup.

The meal was served in very short order with plenty of drink refills. Everyone enjoyed their meal choices and commented that it was tasty and filling. After dinner we all ordered coffee, espresso or cappuccino and Flan Espanol (vanilla and egg caramel custard) dessert to share.

Accidentally, one of the Joes (I’m not telling who) moved their chair back a bit and hit the floor partition which knocked against a folded louver door room separator that toppled over making a loud crash. All the patrons in the restaurant were quiet as a mouse for a split second with mouths all opened. Since there was no real damage and no one was hurt we all continued our conversation as the waiter picked up the partition. A Romeo will do just about anything to get attention.

As we ate, the conversation bounced around the table. Joe Lapiana talked about some TV he likes to watch (Two And A Half Men & The Big Bang). Joe Piganatiello told us that he was hospitalized during Christmas with two clots in his lungs. He has recovered and on some medication to dissolve the clot and thin the blood. Joe Loduca had been in the hospital last month to change his heart defibulator (pace maker) and is now A-OK. His doctor in the hospital asked if he could lift his sheet and check the catheter and after commented that the cold room temperature sure has caused some shrinkage.

Joe P. said that he would have to cancel his season ski pass to Wachusett’s Mt. due to his health. However, Joe Lapiana said he had only been able to go once so far to Wachusetts because it has been too cold. Steve Winter said he was planning to go skiing up north next week if the weather gets a little warmer.

Joe Balsama passed out his annual calendars to everyone from Swampscott Historical Society. The calendars show weather data that he has obtained from the New England Climate Service and the U.S. Naval Observatory. There are many interesting historical photos of places in Swampscott from 1830 to 1969.

The historical photos reminded me of some that I saw from Wilmington, MA where I live. I told Joe P. and Joe B. that there used to be a three story ice house on the shores of Silver Lake in Wilmington in the 1800s. In the winter they would cut out blocks of ice, stored them in the ice house and later transported it by train to Boston and Lowell. This was before refrigeration.

I also told Joe B. that I had a plastic rain gauge at my house that cracked with ice this winter. Joe said he has a metal rain gauge that doesn’t crack and that he measures snow depth with a snow yard stick and keeps daily weather data. I told him that I have used my snow blower 6 times this winter and had looked up the snow depths on AccuWeather.com. I’m sure that we will be snow blowing a few more times before winter is over.

Across the table, Joe Loduca talked about some baseball trivia. He seems to know a lot about it and quoted some sayings from Yogi Berra. I can’t remember exactly what he said so I looked some up on the web. You can find them at the link … http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/y/yogi_berra.html
Two Yogi quotes are “He hits from both sides of the plate. He's amphibious.” And
“Baseball is ninety percent mental and the other half is physical.” We all had a good belly laugh.

Ed D., Steve W. and Jim T. all tried to tally the bill. As Ed worked it out with pencil and paper, Steve quickly did it in his head and Joe Lapiana rounded off the figures and gave his answer. It sounded like a TV Quiz show. Eventually they all agreed and we divided the bill equally.

Next month we will meet on February 25th (Ash Wednesday) at Stelli’s in Billerica. Joe Loduca will give us a special dispensation. Joe T. will send info by email.

You can see photos at the link below …
http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/RomeoLunch11309